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Scientific Explanation between Principle and Constructive Theories

Felline, Laura (2010) Scientific Explanation between Principle and Constructive Theories. [Preprint]

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Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the role that the distinction between principle and constructive theories have in the question of the explanatory power of Special Relativity. We show how the distinction breaks down at the explanatory level. We assess Harvey Brown’s (2005) claim that, as a principle theory, Special Relativity lacks of explanatory power and criticize it, as, we argue, based upon an unrealistic picture of the kind of explanations provided by principle (and constructive) theories. Finally, we claim that the structural account of explanation (Hughes 1989b) captures the explanatory success of Special Relativity.


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Item Type: Preprint
Creators:
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Felline, Laura
Keywords: Scientific Explanation, Principle and constructive theories, Special Relativity
Subjects: General Issues > Explanation
Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Depositing User: laura felline
Date Deposited: 24 May 2010
Last Modified: 07 Oct 2010 15:19
Item ID: 5367
Subjects: General Issues > Explanation
Specific Sciences > Physics > Relativity Theory
Date: January 2010
URI: https://philsci-archive.pitt.edu/id/eprint/5367

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